Dwadasha Stotra – 3

The third stotra in the series of 12 is perhaps the most important, in terms of revealing the philosophical tenets of Tattvavada. Sri Madhvacharya has done an amazing job of composing a stotra in praise of Vishnu while at the same time revealing the core principles of his philosophy. This stotra is truly a reflection into the genius of Sri Madhva.

Do that (Karma – activity) which is appropriate and correct (for your Varna). Experience the results of such Karma performed. Stay firmly at the feet of Lord Hari with utmost reverence. Lord Hari is the Supreme One. Lord Hari is the Guru for all. Lord Hari is the father, mother and resort

There is no other thing in this Universe which is superior to Him, who is the best amongst all and higher than even Lakshmi, who in turn is higher than Brahma and others. Therefore, enough of your engrossed thought about this material world. Engage your mind at the feet of the all-controlling Lord

If one even attempts to think of the feet of Lord Hari, all the sins of such a person are instantly destroyed. The one who actually thinks (meditates) surely obtains the supreme position of Mukti. Why else should one give up thinking of Him?

Listen to those words spoken (by Lord Veda Vyasa) through an oath and with raised hands – “There is none greater than Hari; There is none equal to Hari; He alone is above and superior to all the sentient beings”

If Lord Hari was not the Supreme Being in this Universe, how come the Universe is under His control? If everything was not under His control (and consequently under our control), how come one does not have sustained (unlimited, continuous) happiness?

Karma, ignorance, desire-hatred, time, sattva-rajas-tamas gunas, nature of souls and others are not responsible for this Universe. All those are insentient elements. The Vedas proclaim that this entire Universe consisting of sentient and insentient elements is under the control of Lord Hari, who is the Supreme Soul!

It is not the opinion of the teacher of the world, Lord Veda Vyasa, that the difference between souls and Paramatma is merely transactional. Lord Hari Himself (Vyasa), in the (Maha)Bharata has replied to the question (of Janamejaya) “Are Purushas many? or one?” by saying “Sentient beings are many. Lord Hari is the best amongst them”

Lord Brahma and other liberated souls, just like how they were distinct and placed in order of hierarchy from the Paramatma before liberation, are distinct and enjoy bliss according to their placement in the hierarchical order, even after Mukti. There exists excellent Pramanas to vouch for this fact!

Composed by Anandatirtha, the one who has the name of Purna Prajna, these eight shlokas praising Lord Hari, if chanted by one with devotion, will surely bring the affection (grace) of Lord Hari